The UofL Women’s Basketball Team faces Oregon State Friday in the NCAA tournament, the Cardinals’ third Sweet 16 appearance in a row. One of the drivers behind the team’s success has been Arica Carter, a redshirt senior guard from Los Angeles who is prolific in both scoring and assists.
Carter’s floor general skills also help her academically as she pursues a psychology degree from the College of Arts & Sciences. She wants to be a coach or a sport psychologist when she graduates.
The College of A&S had the chance to talk to Carter about her life off the court, her role models and more. Check it out:
What is it that drew you to your major?
Carter: As a basketball player I had to get help from the sport psychologist with controlling my thoughts. Because she helped me the way she did, I want to help others. I understand how much the mind can affect one’s ability to play their sport.
If you were to recommend your major to someone, what would you say about it?
Carter: I would say that it is very interesting because the mind is so powerful and has so many different and surprising aspects to it. I think once a person learns how to control their thoughts their chances of success in any field increase.
What has been your favorite college course that you have taken thus far? Why?
Carter: My favorite college course I’ve taken so far is The History of Psychology because I got to learn about some very important and interesting cases.
What is something you get excited or passionate about?
Carter: I get excited and passionate about basketball and my loved ones.
When you’re not practicing/training or studying, what do you like to do?
Carter: I like to hang out with my friends and family members. We do things like play games, watch movies, go bowling, go out to eat and just talk
Who is your role model, and why?
Carter: My role models are both my mom and sister because they are two strong women who keep pushing through no matter what the circumstances are. They always try to find something positive in bad situations.
What’s your favorite thing about Louisville? Favorite thing about UofL? Why?
Carter: My favorite thing about Louisville is the support the fans show outside of basketball. My favorite thing about UofL is the feeling of family that I get when I’m around my teammates and faculty members. I am a very family-oriented person and with my family being so far away, it is important that I feel like I’m a part of a family here.
What’s your favorite spot on campus?
Carter: My favorite spot on campus is Cardinal Town, where all the food is!
What is one thing your classmates and teammates might not know about you?
Carter: One thing my classmates and teammates might not know about me is that I love poetry.
What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?
Carter: I’ve received a lot of good advice. Advice that I concentrate on the most is “Control what you can control” and “Expect the expected.”
